Virginia Miller graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from UOW and is now working in London for an organisation called Nyrstar, the world’s largest zinc producer and one of the world’s largest producers of primary lead.  Nyrstar employs more than 4,000 people across four continents.  Virginia is the Group HR Officer for Nyrstar and works in the head office which is based in London.  Virginia and her husband Greg (also a UOW graduate) are living in South West London.

We interviewed Virginia about her experiences and what it is like to live and work overseas.

Why did you want to work overseas?
My husband and I both wanted to gain international experience and base ourselves somewhere in Europe to enjoy a different lifestyle – London seemed logical!  It also helps that it is the financial capital of the world and the experience gained here will be invaluable when returning home.

Why did you decide to work in the field you are working in?
Five years ago I took a liking to Human Resources and my manager at the time encouraged me to undertake my Bachelors degree.  I decided to study whilst working full time – challenging but definitely rewarding at the end.

Did you have to apply for your job before you left Australia or once you got to the UK?
No, once I got to the UK.

What do you see as the benefits of progressing your career overseas?
The majority of organisations in London (& Europe) have a global presence so the scope of activities are much broader than what I was experiencing back home.  

What do you see as the personal benefits of working and living overseas?
Definitely the number one benefit is travel - we have been averaging at least one new country per month! I’ve been really enjoying meeting people from different countries, cultures and ideals.  And then obviously the experience that I’ve gained with my current role – it really has been a huge learning curve.

What advice would you give to fellow alumni who are thinking of working overseas?
Working overseas is a fantastic experience, but can be frustrating getting yourself started.  A little planning before you go can make the transition much easier.  Make sure your CV is up to date and succinct.  Prior contact with a recruitment company can be beneficial. Speak to people who have lived and worked in your chosen destination about places to live, job prospects, salary.  If you can’t speak to someone, there’s always the web.

One more thing, don’t get put off by recruiters who insist that in order to get the job you want you need UK experience ... find another recruiter!

What are the challenges of working overseas?
The workplace in the UK is similar to Australia, which helps, but subtle differences include a less direct approach to communication, people from a variety of countries and cultures which can cause communication/interpretation issues and the amount of red tape!

Has working overseas been everything you thought it would be?
Yes, and more. In my current job, I’ve worked in three countries, looked after a workforce of many and varied nationalities and had a role in the development of a global company’s best practices. It’s also good to realise that in many ways Australia is as advanced if not more so than the UK in it’s work practices and everyday life.

How long do you plan to stay in the UK for?
Probably just over 2 years … can’t do too many summers away from home!

What are your goals and ambitions for the future?
Capitalise on the experience that I will have gained over here ……… start a family …… and buy that house near the beach!